Google Doodle Celebrates Yosemite on Day Park Closes

Anyone who uses Google today is thinking about Yosemite

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The Google Doodle celebrates Yosemite's past, but in the present the park has a closed sign on all entrances.

The federal government's shutdown came on the 123th anniversary of Yosemite National Park, which means all birthday celebrations have been canceled.

The park officially closed on Tuesday, the first government shutdown in 17 years. And instead of welcoming visitors with cheers and birthday candles, park rangers are escorting people out of the Yosemite Valley.

In a second strange turn of events, the anniversary was the inspiration for Tuesday's Google Doodle, which is seen by millions of people each day. Many of them may not be aware that the park the doodle is promoting is off limits.

"Day use visitors will be instructed to leave the park immediately. Visitors utilizing overnight concession accommodations and campgrounds will be notified to make alternate arrangements and depart the park," the contingency read.

(Yosemite)IS CLOSED to Park visitors, PER PARK RANGERS, SR41/SR140/SR120 roads remain open to RESIDENTS and THRU TRAFFIC over Tioga Pass!